Vehicle & Traffic Law 1111(d)2a, “Failed to Yield Right on Red”

Outside of New York City, motorists are generally allowed to make a right turn at a red light. However, they are required to yield to pedestrians and other traffic before making the turn. A failure to yield can result in the issuance of a traffic ticket for violation VTL 1111(d)2a. If you plead guilty to this ticket or are found guilty after trial, you will get three points on New York State driver’s license. The exact fine is up to the judge, with the maximum being $150 + $93 mandatory surcharge for a first-time offender. You can expect increased insurance rates if this appears on your driving record.

Text of Statute (link)

Traffic facing a steady circular red signal may cautiously enter the intersection to make a right turn after stopping as required by paragraph one of this subdivision, except that right turning traffic is not required to stop when a steady right green arrow signal is shown at the same time.  Such traffic shall yield the right-of-way to pedestrians within a marked or unmarked crosswalk at the intersection and to other traffic lawfully using the intersection.

Fighting a Ticket for VTL 1111(d)2a

Whether the charges are accurate or inaccurate, you can still fight the ticket. There is nothing unethical or illegal about pleading Not Guilty to a traffic ticket even if the allegations are true. Pleading Not Guilty does not mean you are saying the charges are not true. Pleading Not Guilty simply means you are utilizing your constitutional right to require the police officer to prove their case. Often, they do not prove their case and you can get the ticket dismissed, but it does not usually come to that. If handled properly you can obtain a plea offer that would allow you to plead guilty to a harmless violation like a parking ticket. This allows you to avoid the points on your license and avoid the increased insurance rates.

A traffic ticket attorney can help in two ways. One, they can file the Not Guilty plea for you and make any court appearances in your place. Two, a seasoned traffic lawyer is in the best position to obtain the most optimal disposition.

Benjamin Goldman Law Office

The team at the Benjamin Goldman Law Office can help with a ticket for VTL 1111(d)2a. We are a law firm that primarily practices Traffic Law. The law firm was established in 2011 in the Town of Thompson. Over the years, the firm has expanded and now offers services throughout New York State. The Benjamin Goldman Law Office has successfully handled cases from Brooklyn to Niagara Falls. Our team welcomes all traffic-related charges and will be glad to take on your case. Consultations are free.

Fight a VTL § 1111(d)2a Ticket